Mary Shelley’s novel Frankenstein is a ubiquitous feature of popular culture, continuously adapted and revisited. Dr. Raymond Boisvert, Professor of Philosophy Emeritus, argues that Frankenstein endures because of its sophisticated treatment of morality. Victor, a brilliant thinker who sees science as a means of transcending natural limits, creates life (Frankenstein’s “monster”) only to demean and abandon his creation. But Boisvert argues that Victor is a complex figure — neither inherently evil, nor the product of a corrupt or evil society. Instead Victor’s failings can better be understood by examining two different ethical models: Evil as Absence & Evil as Banal.
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We had a great time on our October Philosophy Walk on Sunday, October 7th. Our group enjoyed lovely weather, conversation, and a leisurely hike on the Tubbs Trail with special guest speaker, biomimicry specialist and civil engineer, Marie Z. Bourgeois. Our topic of choice: nature, biomimicry & virtue ethics!
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Part 1 of our 3-Part Fall Philosophy Walk Series on the environment, ethics & stewardship took place on Sunday, September 9th on Merlin Nature Preserve & Little Falcon Farm. What a spectacular day! The weather was beautiful — soft fluffy clouds, a slight breeze, and warm sunshine — and the conversation and company was equally wonderful! Sponsored in part by grants from The Philosophy Learning & Teaching Organization & Humanities Montana, this walk explored philosophical and other perspectives related to public vs. private lands and rights (individual, collective, indigenous, other) and featured special guest speakers Shane M. Doyle, EdD and Edward Glowienka, PhD.
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We are thrilled to have had the opportunity to be interviewed by the Helena Independent Record about our 3-part philosophy symposium series on the environment, ethics & stewardship, the first of which will take place on Sept. 20th 2018 and will focus on philosophical issues and perspectives related to public vs. private lands & rights and responsibilities.
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In light of the rise in concern about homelessness in Helena, we are dedicating our August and September Think & Drink sessions [as well as our September Think & Drink (squared) session] to discuss the moral dimensions of homelessness.
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Our Spring 2018 Silent Weekend Retreat at Deep Bay Center on Flathead Lake was magical. Mother Nature gifted us in so many ways. The weather and views were beautiful…and very much in keeping with the hearts and kindness of our retreat-goers. Included below are some retreat reflections and a not…
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Please join us on Sunday, March 24th from 10am-1pm for the third in our Fall-Winter philosophy walk series in conjunction with our Fall-Winter Philosophy Symposium Series about the environment, ethics & conservation stewardship. This walk will explore the topic of current & future environmental and conservation challenges. Guest Speakers/Co-Philosophers-on-Trail: Thomas Baumeister,…
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